Titans team attitude starts in the off-season
Titans starting running back Kobe Bennett’s first year at Syracuse has him leading region 1 in rushing and rushing touchdowns. Bennett and the Titans keep the focus on making a deep playoff run this year. Bennett, a junior, transferred from Roy and immediately became part of the Titan’s no-nonsense off-season program. “I noticed that no one played around,” said Bennett. “Workouts were 100 percent all the time and everyone pushed each other to be the best they could be.” Win every week would be the Titan’s team goal and they finished the regular season by winning the region title last Friday at home against Farmington. Running, blocking, or catching passes Bennett’s all-around game has him being an impact player every game for the Titans. Bennett’s contribution to the team saw him leading the region in rushing with 695 yards and 11 touchdowns.
Head coach Mike Knight and Offensive Coordinator Braden Hamblin
“Kobe has been a great addition to our team, said Knight. “His attitude, work ethic, and play have helped our team’s success.” “He is a great kid, and we are lucky to have him on our team.” “He is a powerful runner who is very patient when finding running lanes,” said Hamblin. ” He is very versatile, has great vision, and protects the football.” Ball protection is a key strength for Bennett, as he a not fumbled in 273 career rushing attempts. “I love his passion for the game and his determination,” said Hamblin. ” He has a winning attitude and a winning personality, and I am proud to be his coach.”
Bennett’s versatility
Bennett played last season with current Brigham Young University receiver Parker Kingston at quarterback and enjoyed a great season. Kingston dominated teams with his blazing speed and Bennett was the perfect inside runner to keep defenses off balance. This season Bennett has pocket passer Jake Hopkins for the Titans and excels in his role to keep the pass rush honest. Bennett’s all-around game to run, block and catch the football out of the backfield makes him the complete back.
Titans finish off regular season as region 1 champs
After an 0-2 start, the Titans have 8 straight victories including an undefeated region year. Bennett and the Titan’s offense 386 points led the region, and the defense only gave up a best of 121 points. Winning the title was a great accomplishment for the team after the slow start. “It makes me feel like nothing went to waste,” said Bennett. “We worked through the off-season for it to pay off in the season.” Off-season work is the key to in-season success. Bennett models his running style and overall game after New York Giants star Saquon Barkley. He gives credit to be ready physically and mentally for the season to trainers Drake Cook, Ivan Lofton, and Emmett White. Bennett would love to continue playing football after high school and colleges will be reaching out soon.
Current and former teammates love having Bennett on their team and his overall positive attitude every day. His infectious personality is felt by kids in the community as he is always sharing laughs and smiles with them. More than being an outstanding student-athlete, Bennett is a super young man, with a big heart and will be a joy to watch again next year.
photo courtesy James Tate of Kobe Bennett, Syracuse Titans
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